We have a large disparity in our hardy hibiscus plants in the front garden. The one on the left in the picture above was planted first, at the beginning of last season and is so happy to be here. The one on the right was planted at the end of the last season, and it struggling. They are different varieties of hardy hibiscus, but the difference in their appearance of health is vast. The one on the right I purchased because of the variegated leaves and dark red blooms. When I purchased it, it looked a little sad, but it was the end of the season, so I thought that explained it. Hm. Nope. I do want to plant another hibiscus in this area, something with a dark or true red bloom. I will have to be wary of sadness. I will not pull the sad plant, but give it another season to see if it can establish a healthy root system, and get grounded.